A NUMBER of anti-social behaviour incidents have been reported in Leigh this week, including off roads being used illegally and drug dealing.

The use of off road bikes has become a common problem recently, with reports of the vehicles being used illegally and dangerously across Leigh.

Just this week alone, one bike nearly collided with a jogger at Bickershaw Country Park, while another a bike was seen with a three year old child on the back and another rider lost control on Leigh Road and their bike burst in to flames.

Based on CCTV footage, along with descriptions and photographs from the community, police stated they are "successfully managing to identify many of those responsible" and following up each report they receive.

Due to the rise in ASB, the police have been patrolling some repeat locations including Marsh Playing Fields and stated they we will prioritise action against repeat offenders in those locations..

The fields behind Lawson Avenue in Atherleigh has been another location with a lot of reports from concerned residents about off road bikes causing a nuisance, with one rider identified and given a formal warning under the Police Reform Act.

Inspector Smith said: "Any similar anti-social behaviour from [this offender] on a bike or using any other motor vehicle will now result in it being seized and most likely crushed. We'll be conducting further enforcement action over the next few weeks and that's the second individual we've identified and taken action against in relation to the issues behind Lawson Avenue."

Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Police have also obtained a further Closure Order on a residential address on Hope Carr Road, Leigh in response to reports of crime and anti-social behaviour at the address.

The Order prevents individuals, other than those specified, from entering the premises and is the fifth closure order recently obtained in response to concerns from the local community in Leigh about crime and anti-social behaviour.

In addition to this, there have also concerns from the community about drug dealing and feeling unsafe on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

In response, the police have informed the public that they are stepping up their patrols of the area to ensure that the community feel able to use the canal as they should be entitled to.

There have been further patrols in other ASB hotspot locations which have a stolen motorcycle and a knife on the Higher Folds estate.

Residents are advised to report any anti-social behaviour to police by ringing 101 or anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.